Will be loved and sorely missed forever – Andy Cochrane
The family of a man who tragically died in a collision in Weymouth have named and paid tribute to him.
At around 8am on Tuesday 23 June 2015, police were called to a serious road traffic collision involving a white Vauxhall Vivaro van and a white Ducati motorcycle on the Littlemoor Road junction with Louviers Road.
The emergency services, including the air ambulance, attended the incident and road closures were put in place while collision investigators examined the scene.
Sadly the motorcyclist, 50-year-old Andy Cochrane of Broadmayne, died at the scene.
Andy’s family released the following statement: “It is with great sadness that we announce the devastating loss of Andy who was tragically killed in the motorcycle collision with a van in Weymouth on Tuesday morning.
“Andy was a loving husband and best friend to Julie – having spent 30 years together – and a devoted father to his two daughters Hollie, 17, and Zoe, 15, who are missing their father immensely.
“Born in Melmerby, Cumbria, he was the youngest of three sons and moved to Dorset in 1981.
“He was an incredibly funny, intelligent, genuine and hard working person with a wicked sense of humour who always had a smile on his face.
“Riding motorbikes was Andy’s passion in life and he had his first motorbike aged five. He even arrived at the church on our wedding day on his bike with his best man and currently has five other motorbikes in his garage.
“Everyone who knew Andy is in total shock and disbelief that he has been tragically taken, far too soon. This has left a huge hole in everyone’s hearts, which will never be filled. He will never be forgotten and will be hugely missed by all.
“We would like to thank the emergency services that attended on that morning and for everything they did for Andy.
“Andy was and always will be a true ‘legend’ to everyone that knew him and will be loved and sorely missed forever.”
Officers are still appealing for witnesses to the collision or manner of driving of both vehicles to come forward. In particular, they would like to speak with the driver of a small bright yellow car who turned into Louviers Road from Littlemoor Road at approximately 7.50am on 23 June.
Police Sergeant Rhiannon Stroud, of Dorset Police’s Traffic Unit, said: “I am keen to speak with the driver of the yellow car as I believe they might be able to help me with my enquiries. I would like to stress that this driver is not in any kind of trouble and ask that they contact me as soon as possible.”
A 44-year-old Weymouth man who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving has been released on police bail until the middle of August pending further enquiries.
Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 23:58. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.
